If your car spends too long in the sun, the ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause damage to your car’s paint and interior upholstery. To stop this from happening the most obvious thing you can do is keep your vehicle in a covered area when not in use. However, this isn’t always possible or practical, so the best you can do is take more care and try to limit any damage.
Here are some practical steps you can take to protect your car.
Wash your car regularly
Washing your car regularly will reduce the damage done by exposure to the sun. For example, if you have a build-up of dirt and grime on your car, the sun will ‘bake’ it in further and make it harder to remove. If your car is kept outdoors, it is best to give it a good wash once a week, which you can do at home or go to a car wash if you prefer.
Wax your car
After you wash your car, it is a good idea to apply a coat of car wax. This will not only help your car look good, but it will also help protect against the sun’s rays by acting as a protective layer to protect your car’s paint.
Use a windscreen sun shield
You can pick up a decent sun protector cheaply at most major retailers. They are a great way to protect your car’s interior upholstery when it is parked in the sun.
Park in the shade
When you park your car, try and find a parking spot out of direct sunlight, like in a car parking building or your garage at home. This will help protect the interior and exterior of your car. If you don’t have access to shade, you can also use a car cover to protect your vehicle from the sun and heat, especially if you’re not planning to use it for an extended period.
Use seat covers
Seat covers can help protect your interior upholstery by reducing the damage done by exposure to direct sunlight. They will also keep your seats cooler during the summer months.
Check your tyre pressure
It has been shown that hot pavements can cause under-inflated tyres to blow out or sustain damage. So, make sure you check your tyre pressure often to ensure they are inflated to the correct levels.
The bottom line
Replacing car interiors, tyres, or getting a new paint job for your car can be costly and will adversely affect your car’s resale value. This makes it worthwhile to take some simple steps to protect your vehicle from the sun and heat during the hot Kiwi summer.